AMD vs Intel

[Exhale]

So I'm building my first computer in late May/early June and was wondering what kind of processor to get. I was talking to a guy working at this local computer parts store who disliked Intel, saying that everytime one wants to upgrade processors, one needs a new motherboard. Can anyone agree/disagree/add on to this argument? And should I then look into AMD processors as opposed to Intel?

[David M]

That is a huge "it depends".

As a gross generalization with many exceptions, Intel has faster CPU's but they are more expensive.

Intel CPU's are more common, which is a fact and not a generalization.

Over the past few years Intel seems to have more newer socket designs than AMD. I don't think you should make that your deciding factor in whether to choose Intel or AMD.

I think budget and what you want to do with your computer should be your two primary deciding factors.

[chuck462]

AMD vs Intel is like Chevy vs Ford or Yankess vs RedSox. Some people are die-hard fans of one and will totally diss the other for no real reason once you wade through the BS. Both are good.

Intel historically has been more expensive, but not by what I would consider a staggering amount. Similar specs might be anywhere from 50-100, depending on how new it is.

Some have said AMD are more tolerant of overclocking, but I've never really gotten in to OC'ng too much.

I've always based my decision on the stability and reviews of CPUs and what I can afford. You can't go wrong if you keep those in mind.

[birddog_61]

Oh and just so you know, the new 1155 socket for sandy bride will be shared with intels next chip ivy bridge.

[Exhale]

What is ivy bridge?

[chuck462]

Originally Posted by Exhale What is ivy bridge?

The next series of CPUs Intel is developing.

[birddog_61]

22nm Ivy Bridge CPUs Compatible with Sandy Bridge Chipset - Softpedia

Ivy bridge is the chip to replace sandy bridge, its a die shrink but it is supposed to be compatible with sandy bridge boards.

[jdeb]

Originally Posted by David M That is a huge "it depends". As a gross generalization with many exceptions, Intel has faster CPU's but they are more expensive. Intel CPU's are more common, which is a fact and not a generalization. Over the past few years Intel seems to have more newer socket designs than AMD. I don't think you should make that your deciding factor in whether to choose Intel or AMD. I think budget and what you want to do with your computer should be your two primary deciding factors.

I agree. AMD fits well if you want to unlock cores and stretch the dollar a little further. AMD has some catching up to do.

[David M]

The last time AMD was not the laggard was with the FX-55 which was a server CPU that required ECC RAM. AMD does though fill a niche with inexpensive CPU's.

[jdeb]

Originally Posted by David M The last time AMD was not the laggard was with the FX-55 which was a server CPU that required ECC RAM. AMD does though fill a niche with inexpensive CPU's.

There's a blast from the past. I will say I have been building more AMD rigs (Economy) but I have been staying away from their video cards, man the catalyst and drivers are flaky.